Clear Lists
Get the app →
REAL ID Documents Checklist
The documents to gather before your DMV visit, from proof of identity to proof of residency.
A real, editable checklist below — tick, tap a line to rewrite, drag to reorder.
Tick the circles, tap any line to change it, drag the dots to reorder.
Saved in this browser. Send it to Clear to keep it on your phone.
Illinois sorts its documents into four groups, in this order: signature, birth date, Social Security number and residency. A first-time applicant brings one document each for the first three, or signs a form if ineligible for a Social Security number, and two for residency. The NYC Managerial Employees Association lists one proof of identity, one of Social Security number and two of residency for New York. Pennsylvania sends REAL ID applicants to a separate page. Illinois wants originals and warns that not every document it lists counts for REAL ID. Rules differ by state and change, so confirm with your own DMV before you go. This list covers first-time, in-person applications, not renewals or fees.
Why these items are on the list
- Your state's document checklist. Illinois warns requirements can change, so check your own state's current list first.
- Originals, check expiry dates. Illinois asks for originals, which it reviews and scans. Not every document it lists counts for REAL ID.
- Proof of identity (New York). New York asks for one: a passport or US birth certificate.
- Proof of signature (Illinois). Illinois Group A includes passports and Social Security cards; not all of its documents qualify for REAL ID.
- Proof of birth date (Illinois). Illinois Group B: full legal name and birth date; birth certificates must be original or certified.
- Proof of Social Security number. Illinois needs a document showing your full number; a W-2 or pay stub showing it also counts.
- Two proofs of residency. Illinois and New York ask for two, New York's issued within a year; Pennsylvania's standard credentials need two too.
- Recent bank or card statement. Illinois accepts bank and credit card statements dated within 90 days.
- Deed or mortgage paperwork. Illinois lists a deed, title or mortgage among residency proofs. Check your own state's list.
- Housemate and their photo ID. Pennsylvania's standard credentials accept a housemate's affidavit if no bills carry your name; REAL ID has its own page.
- Name change documents. New York asks for them if applicable. Illinois wants documents linking old and new names, such as a court order.
- Current out-of-state license. New York asks for it if you are exchanging a license from another state.
- Proof of legal presence. New York requires it of non-US citizens. Illinois accepts a US passport or birth certificate as lawful presence.
- Certified English translations. Illinois wants documents not in English to carry a complete English translation, certified by the translator as accurate.
- DMV appointment. The NYC Managerial Employees Association reports heavier DMV demand and highly recommends scheduling an appointment.
- Document pre-screening. New York's DMV offers secure pre-screening of your documents before the in-person visit.
- Delivery window for the new card. The NYC Managerial Employees Association puts mail delivery of the new card at about two weeks.
Tick each proof off as it goes into the folder, then recheck on your phone while you wait at the counter. Share the list with anyone applying alongside you so nobody assumes the other has the paperwork.
When to use it
Use it before you book a DMV appointment for a first REAL ID, and again the day before you go.